§ Dr. CHAPPLEasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether his attention has been called to the organisation of public indignation meetings in Australia to protest against the alleged partial cession of the New Hebrides to France; whether there is any foundation for the disquiet amongst those in Australasia most interested in the islands; and whether, in view of the growing dissatisfaction with the Condominium, and the distrust arising in the delay in the negotiations for reform, he will state the nature and the stage of the communications with the French Government on the subject?
§ Sir E. GREYThere is no question of cession of the New Hebrides, and, therefore, no foundation for the disquiet to which the hon. Member refers. As stated in this House on the 12th instant, the question of the steps to be taken for the improvement of the Condominium administration is receiving the earnest consideration both of His Majesty's Government and of the French Government, but at this stage I cannot usefully make any fuller statement.
§ Dr. CHAPPLEMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman if he is keeping in touch with Colonial opinion in the negotiations with the French Government?
§ Sir E. GREYI understand that the Government of Australia has been in communication with the Secretary for the Colonies, and these communications have, of course, been brought under the consideration of the Foreign Office.
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEWill the right hon. Gentleman say whether the question of the New Hebrides has been mentioned in the negotiations pending in regard to the new Treaty about to be made between France and this country?
§ Sir E. GREYTo what Treaty does the hon. Member refer?
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEI refer to the Treaty to be made between France and this country.
§ Sir E. GREYWell, Sir, I am afraid I must ask for notice of the question.